Monday tidbits from training camp

Everyday there are a few plays that even make the players cheer during camp. Today, one of them came in the red zone when rookie quarterback Jared Zabransky found tight end Ben Steele in the corner of the end zone for a touchdown.

Jamar Fletcher picked off two passes on defense and broke up at least one other one. He seemed to always be by the ball. He’s playing mostly nickelback, but is definitely making the Texans at least consider him for the starting job over Demarcus Faggins.

Andre’ Davis made another great catch across the middle that looked like he was going to be a step behind. Instead, he stretched out his arms, caught it on the tips of his fingers and held on. He has caught almost everything being thrown at him.

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Liking Leach

Part of the reason Vonta Leach didn’t get on the field sooner last year was because the Texans didn’t think he practiced well. Leach is a physical, punishing blocker though. He has never really figured out how to tone it down in practice and not hurt anyone. So in practice, he would come across looking slower and less physical than he is.

When the Texans had to insert him into the lineup because of the injury to Cook last season, they saw what a presence he was on the field. He’s a converted linebacker, who uses everything he learned on defense.

This season, the Texans already know what he can do on the field, and he’s practicing better than he ever did last year. They are working with him on his blocking, and his all around game. He is going to be critical to the success of the running game – just like he was last December. He was a big reason Ron Dayne rushed for 153 yards against the Indianapolis Colts.

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Richardson gone

Terry Richardson, the rookie wide receiver out of Arizona State, only lasted two days into camp. By Day Three, his No. 84 was being worn by Keenan McCardell.

“He just really came in there one morning and said ‘I’m not really sure I want to do this,'” coach Gary Kubiak said. “He’s a great kid, he’s got some ability, and we had to make a move anyway with our running back situation. ”

The Texans cut him when they signed Patrick Pass and Darius Walker to boost the depth at running back Sunday.

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Punting pals

It will take awhile until the Texans are going to be able to tell whether Matt Turk or Chad Stanley have the edge heading into the final cuts this offseason. Turk has been showing off his leg, kicking punts that touch the top of the bubble when the team has been inside. But until a couple of preseason games are past, it will be hard to tell who has the true edge.

Stanley struggled last season, especially away from home. Turk is 37 years old, but proved last season in St. Louis that he still can kick.

“Well, they’re both just beating it up every day, going head to head,” Kubiak said. “One of the hard things in this league nowadays, probably because of your numbers, it’s hard to bring in two punters or two kickers because you need numbers at all these other spots. We think it’s important to push Chad, and Matt has done a good job of doing that. Right now it’s too early to tell.”